(Minister of International Trade)
The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, today launched new Canadian trade offices in Chengdu and Shenzhen, China. These will help Canadian companies gain access to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
“Expanding trade opportunities for Canadians is a top priority for our government. These cities present some of the greatest prospects in China,” said Minister Day. “Expected to open on July 1, the two offices will further strengthen Canada’s commercial footprint and expand the business connections that are so critical to trade in China.”
An additional four Canadian trade offices – in Nanjing, Qingdao, Shenyang and Wuhan – are expected to open before the end of the year. Together, these six cities are home to almost 50 million people.
“A great number of opportunities exist for Canadian companies in sectors such as construction, agriculture, machinery and equipment, and technology,” said Minister Day. “These new offices will be central points of contact for Canadian firms and our Chinese business partners seeking to establish new links with everything Canada has to offer.”
In 2008, Canadian merchandise exports to China totalled $10.4 billion, up 9.1% from the previous year. Merchandise imports from China totalled $42.6 billion, up 11.3%.
Additional information can be obtained on this matter at the DFAIT website.
